Which type of UV ray is primarily responsible for skin burning?

The correct choice is UVB rays, as they are primarily responsible for causing sunburn and have a significant impact on the skin's surface layers. UVB radiation has a shorter wavelength compared to UVA rays and is more intense, making it the main contributor to skin damage that results in inflammation and redness – commonly known as sunburn.

UVB rays are also associated with the development of skin cancer, as they can cause direct DNA damage to skin cells. Understanding the role of UVB rays in skin burning is crucial for skin protection, as it emphasizes the need for effective sunscreen that specifically protects against these rays.

In contrast, UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin and are more associated with aging and long-term skin damage rather than immediate burns. UVC rays, while potentially the most harmful, are mostly absorbed by the Earth's atmosphere and do not typically reach the skin. Visible light rays do not cause skin burning, though they can influence skin conditions in some contexts.